2022 DIVERSITY DATABASE UNDERWRITER Allen & Overy LLP

Training & Assignments

• “The summer associate program is tailored to each individual's interest, which offers the opportunity to receive assignments from a variety of practice groups (or, if one prefers, to focus on one).”
• “While there's a traditional work-allocation committee which distributes work based on expressed preference, there are plenty of opportunities for summer associates to reach out directly to practice groups to express interest and pick up various assignments.”
• “Allocation of work for summer associates was efficient and mindful of a summer associate's level. Assignments were substantive and challenging, but summer associates received the support necessary to be successful.” 
• “The program is balanced. Although the summer experience was completely remote, A&O managed to provide everyone with meaningful work and social events. Attorneys were welcoming and willing to talk.”

Social Opportunities

• “There was strong camaraderie among my group of summer associates. We all still communicate regularly, and we care about one another's success.”
• “Events were great—not too many, not too few. Everyone attended all events, for the most part. Firm attorneys took a genuine interest in the summers.”
• “They did the best they could given it was all virtual. Plenty of events.”

Associate Experience vs. Summer Expectations

• “Though I suspected it to be the case during my summer, I realize now that people do care about one another's success as much as they care about the firm's success. Most of the partners are approachable and willing to share their wisdom and provide feedback.”
• “My practice is always very busy. My expectation before I joined was that the firm would want people to work more. But the reality is that partners do care about junior people's happiness and sanity. Partners and all teammates respect each others' vacation time and family responsibilities, and are willing to step in whenever someone needs help.”
• “The firm has expanded significantly since I was a summer associate, so the breadth and depth of practices available has grown significantly. In addition, we are now in a hybrid work environment, so the experience and culture of the firm has changed. For example, I now work with partners I did not previously anticipate working with as a summer associate.

Favorite Summer Events

• “Dumpling-making class.”
• “Virtual trivia.
• “Terrarium making.”

Our US summer program offers students an interactive and enjoyable experience with: substantive insights into our practice areas; ample opportunities to connect with colleagues; and the training and development framework needed to become an exceptional lawyer, within a global elite firm.  

Our 2022 program kicked off in New York City with a comprehensive three-day orientation for all US summer associates.  The A&O summer curriculum reflects our commitment to broadening your understanding of: our global platform; unique approach to ensuring equity and inclusion; and the importance of attorney well-being – all while providing practice exploration opportunities and hands-on learning, working closely alongside our partners and associates.  

Throughout your ten weeks, you’ll be offered superior mentorship, supervision and support – with an emphasis on the practical skills and mindset required to deliver outstanding client service.  We nurture an atmosphere that is open, dynamic and fun; and our program prioritizes making sure talented new lawyers both build professional networks and broaden their knowledge base, all within a context that’s distinctly Allen & Overy.